UNION TOWNSHIP — If you ask his friends and family, they'll tell you David B. Swanson was a man who loved the outdoors and felt the need to help others after two natural disasters that struck the area.

When Bound Brook flooded years ago, Swanson was also there to help use his boat to rescue people, according to Joanne_S_L, an NJ.com commenter who called Swanson her "little brother."

"He was a kind, gentle man, an amazing brother, husband and father," Joanne_S_L wrote. "His loss leaves a profound hole in our lives and hearts. We will always remember him as 'Mr. Fun Guy. I love you little brother!"

The cause and manner of death is still unclear, but the body identified as Swanson's was found in 6 feet of water, about 70 yard off shore, Prosecutor Anthony P. Kearns III said in a statement.

Swanson was reported missing by his family Wednesday at about 5:30 p.m., according to State Police, after he failed to return from fishing in the area around Spruce Run State Park.

State Police also said Swanson would go kayaking in different areas along the Raritan or Millstone rivers in Somerset and Hunterdon counties.

His vehicle was found on a dirt road near a small pond not far from the reservoir Thursday, the prosecutor said. His body ended up being found in that pond shortly after divers found a capsized canoe around 11:40 a.m, Kearns said.

Swanson was not wearing a personal flotation device, Kearns said.

Thursday afternoon, the Hunterdon County Medical Examiner's Office made a positive identification of the body.

"Our prayers are with Mr. Swanson's friends and family during their time of grief," Kearns said.

Tim Catlin, another NJ.com commenter, said he grew up in Somerville and his neighbor used to watch over Swanson's children.

"Dave was a great man and enjoyed the outdoors," Catlin wrote. "He worked hard to support his family. He will be missed. Our condolences to his wife and kids."